Former US Rep. Mike Ross joins Ark. gov's race

Ross officially announced his bid Wednesday in his hometown in Prescott.

ANDREW DeMILLOAssociated Press

Former U.S. Rep. Mike Ross has formally launched his bid to seek the Democratic nomination for governor next year.

Ross officially announced his bid Wednesday in his hometown in Prescott. A statewide tour was planned for later Wednesday, ending at the state Capitol in Little Rock.

In prepared remarks, Ross said he hopes to build on progress Gov. Mike Beebe has made in education and economic development.

Ross said last year he wouldn't run for governor, but reconsidered after Attorney General Dustin McDaniel dropped out of the race in January over questions about an extramarital relationship. Former Lt. Gov. Bill Halter is also seeking the Democratic nomination. Term limits prevent Beebe from running again.

Former U.S. Rep. Asa Hutchinson and Little Rock businessman Curtis Coleman are seeking the Republican nomination.